Welcoming shrimp in good conditions

Freshwater shrimp are some of the most endearing residents of a small aquarium. Active all day, they graze on biofilm, clean up leftover food and, for some species, form a colony that renews itself.

For a first tank of 20 to 30 litres, the Neocaridina 'Red Cherry' is the most accessible species: it tolerates moderately hard water and breeds in freshwater. Amano shrimp, effective against filamentous algae, grow larger and need at least 30 litres for a group of five. Our comparison Which shrimp for a nano aquarium? sets out the differences.

One rule allows no exceptions: shrimp only go into an aquarium that has finished its nitrogen cycle, confirmed by tests. Provide moss for hiding places, no product containing copper, and a slow acclimatisation on arrival. The A nano shrimp tank project brings together everything you need.

Before the shrimp arrive

Freshwater shrimp are sensitive to water quality. They should only join an aquarium whose nitrogen cycle is complete, with zero ammonia and nitrite levels. A tank that's been planted for several weeks, with mosses and a little biofilm on the décor, gives them something to nibble on from day one. Read The nitrogen cycle, explained simply before ordering anything.

Which species should I choose?

• Neocaridina, including 'Red Cherry': hardy and tolerant of temperature and hardness, they breed easily in freshwater. This is the ideal species for beginners.
• Amano: larger and more discreet, they happily eat filamentous algae. Their larvae need brackish water: they don't breed in a freshwater aquarium.

If you want to see a colony develop, avoid fish that hunt shrimp or their young.

Acclimatisation

On arrival, let the sealed bag float for around twenty minutes to even out the temperature. Then gradually add water from the tank, in small amounts, over at least an hour. Finally, transfer the shrimp with a net, without pouring the transport water into the aquarium.

Feeding without excess

In a well-planted tank, a small amount of food, eaten within two to three hours, is enough a few times a week. Remove any leftovers, which foul the water.

One point to watch

Copper is toxic to shrimp: check the composition of fertilisers and treatments before using them. The A nano shrimp tank project sets out a complete setup.